Parga Travel Guide (Epirus/Northern Greece/Greece/Europe)

Introduction to Parga

Parga is a small town located in northwestern Greece, in the region of Epirus. The town is situated on the Ionian Sea and offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the summer months when visitors flock to the town to enjoy its stunning beaches and warm Mediterranean climate.

List of Places to Visit in Parga

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Parga has a rich history, and visitors can explore its cultural heritage through its museums and historical landmarks. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

Venetian Castle of Parga - Built in the 11th century, this castle sits atop a hill overlooking the town and offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and the nearby islands.
Ecclesiastical Museum - Located inside the Church of the Holy Apostles, this museum displays a collection of religious icons and artifacts.
Ali Pasha Castle - Located in the nearby town of Anthoussa, this castle was once the residence of Ali Pasha, a Turkish ruler who played a significant role in the town’s history.

Natural Attractions of Parga: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parga is known for its natural beauty, and visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities and stunning scenery, including:

Valtos Beach - This long sandy beach is located just outside the town and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.
Acheron River - This river is famous for its crystal-clear waters and is a great spot for rafting and kayaking.
Lichnos Beach - Another beautiful beach near Parga, this secluded cove offers crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Parga

For those who love adventure and hiking, Parga offers a range of hiking and biking routes that visitors can enjoy. Some of the popular routes include:

Parga to Lichnos Beach Hike - A scenic and relatively easy hike that takes you through olive groves and down to the beautiful Lichnos Beach.
Acheron River Rafting - Rafting down the Acheron River offers visitors a unique way to experience its stunning natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Parga: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, there are a variety of other activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Parga, including:

Boat Tours - Visitors can take a boat tour around the nearby islands, including Paxos and Antipaxos.
Scuba Diving - Parga is home to a range of dive sites and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters and underwater world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Parga

For those planning to spend a week in Parga, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Venetian Castle and explore the town’s narrow alleys and traditional architecture.
Day 2: Spend the day at Valtos Beach, swimming and relaxing in the sun.
Day 3: Take a boat tour to Paxos and Antipaxos and explore their beautiful beaches and scenery.
Day 4: Hike to Lichnos Beach and spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying watersports.
Day 5: Explore the Acheron River and go rafting or kayaking.
Day 6: Visit the Ali Pasha Castle and learn about the town’s rich history.
Day 7: Relax and enjoy the town’s beaches, food, and nightlife.

Food and Drink Scene of Parga

Must-Try Dishes

Parga is renowned for its fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Garides Saganaki - A delicious dish made with sautéed shrimp, tomato sauce, and feta cheese.
Moussaka - A classic Greek dish made with minced beef, eggplant, and a creamy béchamel sauce.
Tzatziki - A refreshing dip made with yogurt, cucumber, and garlic.

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks, Parga offers a variety of local wines and spirits, including:

Koroniotiko Tsipouro - A strong, clear spirit made from the distillation of grape skins.
Red Wine of Epirus - A bold, fruity red wine made from local grape varieties.

Where to Stay in Parga: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Parga offers visitors a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to affordable guesthouses and hostels. Some of the best places to stay in Parga include:

Parga Beach Resort - A luxurious resort located just steps from Valtos Beach.
Acrothea Hotel - A boutique hotel located in the heart of town, offering stylish rooms and stunning views of the Venetian Castle.
Hotel Parga Princess - A family-run hotel located in the peaceful suburb of Parga, offering a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful views of the Ionian Sea.

What to Buy in Parga: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs and local products, Parga offers a variety of options, including:

Olive Oil - Epirus is renowned for its high-quality olive oil, and visitors can find a range of locally produced oils in Parga.
Traditional Woven Fabrics - Visitors can buy locally made woven fabrics, including traditional carpets, rugs, and tablecloths.
Handmade Jewelry - Parga has a thriving artisan community, and visitors can buy high-quality, handmade jewelry from local craftsmen.

Local Culture and Customs of Parga

Parga is a small town, and visitors are expected to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites and avoid public displays of affection.

Best Time to Visit Parga

The best time to visit Parga is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with tourists and locals enjoying the summer season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Parga

Visitors to Parga should follow these simple do’s and don’ts:

Do:

Do try the fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine.
Do respect local customs and traditions.
Do bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.

Don’t:

Don’t litter or damage the town’s natural beauty.
Don’t be loud or disruptive in public places.
Don’t forget to try the local wine and spirits!

Safety and Health

Safety in Parga

Parga is a safe town, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any significant safety issues. However, visitors should be cautious when swimming at the beach and follow any instructions from lifeguards.

Health in Parga

Visitors to Parga should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance and familiarize themselves with local health facilities. While the risk of serious illness is low, visitors should take precautions to avoid sunstroke and dehydration, particularly during the hot summer months.

Getting to Parga: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Parga

The nearest airports to Parga are Ioannina National Airport and Aktion National Airport. Both airports offer regular flights to Athens and other major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Parga

Parga is well-connected to other parts of Greece, with regular bus services to Athens and other major cities. The nearest major bus station is in Igoumenitsa.

Other Options

Visitors to Parga can also drive to the town, with the nearest major highway being the Egnatia Odos, which connects Parga to Thessaloniki and other major cities in northern Greece.

How to Get Around in Parga

Parga is a small town, and most of the major attractions and restaurants are within easy walking distance. However, visitors can also rent bikes or scooters to explore the surrounding countryside and nearby beaches.

Where to Go Next from Parga: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Parga can explore other nearby destinations, including:

Sivota - A picturesque fishing village located just a short drive from Parga, offering stunning beaches and traditional houses.
Nekromanteion of Acheron - An archaeological site located near the Acheron River, believed by ancient Greeks to be the entrance to the underworld.
Zagorohoria - A group of traditional villages located in the nearby Pindus Mountains, offering stunning views and well-marked hiking trails.

Conclusion

Parga is a beautiful and unique destination, offering visitors a chance to explore Greece’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. With its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Parga is the perfect place to relax and unwind, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends.

Parga Image Gallery

The town of Parga